Q: How has technology changed the face of the workforce in the United States?
Mark Zokle: Today’s technology is capable of doing things never before thought possible. For example, some auto manufacturers are rolling out self-driving cars for the 2017 model year. Manufacturing facilities use robots for menial tasks and computer programs automatically manage many companies’ financial transactions, employee records, and even perform other clerical duties.
Q: Are jobs that require relational skills on decline?
Mark Zokle: The opposite is actually true. In sales, there must always be a human element. This is most apparent during high-dollar transactions. I can’t imagine a world where a machine gets to make a decision based on data alone. Buyers must rely on their gut and learn to ask the right questions in order to make a fully informed decision. A computer simply cannot do that!
Q: What do you consider the most important skills necessary for humans moving forward in a technology-centered workplace?
Mark Zokle: I think it is really important to master skills that enhance the human-to-human connection. People are capable of creativity, empathy, and social sensitivity. These are all traits that influence a buyer’s decision.
Q: Do you believe that technology has had a positive impact on the overall quality of goods and services in the United States?
Mark Zokle: I honestly feel conflicted. On the one hand, technology allows us to create things faster and with precision unrivaled by the human eye. On the other, it has made us apathetic toward the needs of those same humans who rely on the products and services provided. I think it takes a responsible balance of both in order maintain quality and customers.
